Phrase guide

tar and feather

verb · 1 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

verb

Meaning 1

To cover (a person) in sticky tar, then cover in feathers which stick to the tar; an archaic means of humiliating a person.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: transitive

Examples

  • 1855 — George A. Smith, Journal of Discourses, Volume 3 "Preaching the Gospel" "O," say they, "if you talk with a Mormon Elder, you are sure to get worsted; tar and feather them, mob them, and stone them out of the country, for if you listen to them, you will be deceived."

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.